Freelance Animation Artist

Rodeo FX

. Deliver high-end, hyper-realistic animation performances for creatures, characters, and animated objects .

Posted 10/22/2026contractRemote • CanadaMid-LevelSeniorWebsite

Core Competencies

Role fit

Core Competencies

Use this summary to align your resume positioning with the role.

Demonstrates expertise in delivering high-end animation performances with a strong proficiency in Maya, while effectively collaborating with production teams and integrating feedback to enhance storytelling. Maintains a keen attention to detail and manages deadlines autonomously in a fast-paced VFX or animation studio environment.

Highest-signal resume keywords

Maya ProficiencyBody Mechanics UnderstandingFacial Animation SkillsAnimation from ReferenceShotGrid Experience

ATS Keywords

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Applicant Tracking System Keywords

Tip: use these terms in your resume and cover letter to boost ATS matches.

Hard Skills

Animation PrinciplesTimingWeightArcsPosingRigging FundamentalsCustom Tool DevelopmentAnimation Quality ImprovementExport-Ready AnimationProblem-Solving

Soft Skills

Attention to DetailAutonomyCollaborationCommunication SkillsPositive Mindset

Tools & Technologies

MayaShotGridAnimation Tools

Industry Keywords

VFXAnimation StudioProduction TrackingCreative DirectionExpressive Performances

About the role

Key responsibilities & impact

Deliver high-end, hyper-realistic animation performances for creatures, characters, and animated objects
Deliver polished animation work meeting creative intent and production specifications
Apply animation principles including timing, weight, arcs, and posing across performance styles
Adapt to realistic creatures, mechanical objects, and stylized characters
Interpret creative direction and reference materials to create nuanced, expressive performances
Propose original ideas and motion choices that enhance storytelling and shot impact
Integrate feedback to improve animation quality
Ensure animation is clean, functional, and export-ready for downstream departments
Troubleshoot rigging or scene-related issues with technical teams
Maintain naming conventions, file structures, and pipeline technical requirements
Provide time estimates and communicate issues or delays promptly
Collaborate with production, leads, and adjacent departments to support handoffs and problem-solving
Proactively flag roadblocks and propose solutions
Participate in dailies and reviews, present work, and respond to notes
Share tools, tips, and approaches with peers
Stay current with software, animation trends, and methodologies

Requirements

What you’ll need

Minimum 6 years of experience in a VFX or animation studio environment
Strong proficiency in Maya; experience with other animation tools is a plus
Solid understanding of body mechanics and facial animation
Ability to animate from reference and build compelling acting performances
High attention to detail, autonomy, and ability to manage deadlines effectively
Positive, collaborative mindset and strong communication skills
Experience with ShotGrid or other production tracking tools is an asset
Knowledge of rigging fundamentals or custom tool development is an asset

Benefits

Comp & perks

Freelance contract
Immediate start
Temporary contract ending around December 18, 2026
Opportunity to participate in learning sessions, studio initiatives, and internal mentorship programs
Inclusive and equitable workplace committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion